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Integrating Distributed Energy Resources in China
Lessons from international experience Like no other country in the world, the People’s Republic of China (hereafter, “China”) is witnessing rapid growth in distributed energy resources (DERs), including rooftop solar photovoltaics, battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. As China advances towards its carbon peaking and neutrality goals, these resources offer a unique opportunity to support a more flexible, efficient and resilient power system, provided their integration is well-managed.This report analyses recent trends in DER deployment across China and highlights the emerging challenges their growth poses for power system planning and operation, calling for renewed attention to…
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Integrating Variable Renewable Energy in Kenya
Key challenges and strategic priorities Building on its renewable energy success, Kenya is now focused on managing a secure and reliable electricity system. With nearly 90% of the generation mix derived from renewable sources and electricity access rising from 37% in 2013 to 79% in 2025, the country has established itself as a regional leader in energy development.Integrating Variable Renewable Energy in Kenya explores how Kenya can strengthen its power system amid rising shares of variable renewable energy (VRE). The report identifies Kenya’s system to be operating in Phase 3 of the IEA’s VRE integration framework, where…
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China’s Official Energy Finance in Emerging and Developing Economies
…in some cases, grants. In recent years, however, the composition has shifted. While financing commitments are slowly rising again, following a drop during the COVID pandemic, policy-bank lending has significantly contracted and focused almost entirely on clean technologies. Meanwhile, state-owned enterprises, state-owned commercial banks and export credit agencies have taken on a larger role, increasingly through equity investments or guarantees. This shift suggests a move towards a more competitive – yet still state-directed – model of international energy engagement.These changes reflect a financing system adapting to new domestic and global circumstances rather than a withdrawal from China…
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Energy Efficiency in China’s Buildings Sector
Policy opportunities Over the past two decades, China has made significant strides in energy efficiency, with strong reductions in primary energy intensity across the economy and increased energy services. Much of China’s improvement has come from energy efficiency upgrades in industry and overall economic structural shifts. The buildings sector accounts for approximately 20% of its total final energy consumption and its intensity has decreased at a slower rate. There remains significant potential to unlock further energy savings through technical and policy initiatives in buildings.This report outlines opportunities for actions, targets and timelines that could improve energy efficiency in…
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Kenya 2024
Energy Policy Review Government action is pivotal in building secure, inclusive and sustainable energy systems. Energy policy is critical not just for the energy sector but also for meeting environmental, economic and social goals. Governments need to respond to national specific needs, adapt to regional contexts, and help address global challenges. In this context, the International Energy Agency (IEA) conducts Energy Policy Reviews to support governments in developing more impactful energy and climate policies.This Energy Policy Review of Kenya was prepared in collaboration between the government of Kenya and the IEA, whose strong partnership achieved an important milestone in…
